The Photographer Read Online Free PDF Page B

this year?”
    â€œOh, I knew you would be.”
    The dress was a dusty pink, surprisingly flattering despite Megan’s red hair. One of Megan’s shoulders was left bare and on the other was a huge pink rose made of layers and layers of chiffon. It seemed to float over her shoulder when she twirled. She wore soft maroon slippers that had tiny heels. Her long, thick hair was clean and shiny and swirled around her shoulders. Pink-and-maroon earrings dangled from her ears, but they were the only jewelry she wore. Having a mother who was a model had taught her that simple styles were really more eye-catching than lots of ruffles and baubles. For her, anyway. As a rule, Megan didn’t wear makeup, but tonight her mother had skillfully made up Megan’s face with just a touch of foundation, eye shadow, and mascara. Megan was amazed at the difference it made in her looks. Huge green eyes sparkled, almost laughing back at her from the mirror.
    When she floated into the living room, where Robert was visiting with her father, she had to hold back her laughter. Robert was momentarily speechless, but Megan could feel his surprise and admiration. He didn’t expect her to wear her usual braid and jeans, did he? Too bad she had to swing the heavy camera case over her shoulder instead of carrying a simple clutch purse.
    Robert grabbed the bag from her. “I may forget we’re there on business,” he whispered as they left the Davidson house. “You look …” Robert searched for the right word.
    Megan had to laugh then. “Gorgeous, beautiful, lovely—any of those will do.”
    â€œAll of those.” Robert laughed, too, and they both relaxed. “Have I ever seen you in a dress?”
    â€œI should hope so. But maybe not. Hey, this is an occasion.”
    The gym was decorated in harvest style, with pumpkins, dried cornstalks, and big bales of hay to sit on or to use for tables. Everyone spoke to Robert and Megan, and Megan gathered many compliments, even from guys. Suddenly she felt popular and pleased with herself. Maybe she should give more time to her appearance, care more how she looked. She knew she had lots of friends, but she’d usually stayed in the background of school life, taking pictures, writing stories, observing what other people did.
    Almost immediately Megan noticed Derrick snapping pictures all over the gym. He had two cameras slung around his neck and looked very official. He hadn’t even bothered to dress up, but wore khaki fatigues as usual. It was as if he were saying, I am here only to record this frivolity.
    Robert found them a table and waved at Gus and Cynthia to join them. Cynthia sat beside Megan and whispered, “That Derrick is driving me crazy, Megan. Every time I turn around, he snaps my picture.”
    â€œTake it as a compliment, Cynthia. You look lovely.”
    Cynthia wore the shimmering gown she’d created for the Homecoming ceremonies and the dance. It was hard to believe she’d made it herself instead of discovering it in one of Denver’s fancy boutiques. There were tiny gold beads all over the cream chiffon that caught and reflected the light. A peach-colored shawl covered her shoulders, and at her waist was a spray of peach-colored roses tied with a brown ribbon. Her white-blond hair was piled high, and here and there tendrils escaped in a sexy, teasing fashion.
    â€œSo do you, Megan.” Cynthia took a good look at Megan for the first time. “That dress is lovely. Let me guess. Your mom picked it out.”
    â€œYou don’t think I have good taste?” Megan teased.
    â€œI think you have excellent taste.” She leaned close and whispered. “In guys. I just know what kind of clothes you usually wear.”
    â€œMaybe I’ll change my image, starting tonight.” Megan grinned, and Cynthia squeezed her arm.
    While they whispered, Derrick kneeled in front of Cynthia and snapped her picture.